Stroke Rate

Stroke Rate: Stroke rate (also called strokes per minute or SPM) is the number of complete rowing strokes performed in one minute on an ergometer.

What is Stroke Rate?

Stroke rate measures how many times you complete a full drive-and-recovery cycle per minute. It is displayed on Concept2 monitors as "s/m" (strokes per minute). Stroke rate typically ranges from 18-22 for steady-state training, 24-28 for threshold work, and 30-40+ for race pieces. A common misconception is that a higher stroke rate always means more power — in reality, power comes from the force applied during the drive. Experienced rowers can generate high watts at lower stroke rates through superior technique and drive power. The relationship between stroke rate and split time is a key indicator of rowing economy.

How Watta Uses Stroke Rate

Watta extracts stroke rate from your erg photos and uses it in the Economy component of the Effort Score (10% weight). The algorithm calculates watts per stroke — a measure of stroke efficiency. Higher watts per stroke indicates greater mechanical efficiency.

Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Content

Force CurveThe force curve is a graph displayed on the PM5 monitor showing the force applied to the erg handle throughout each stroke, used to analyse rowing technique.Watts (Rowing)Watts in rowing measure the power output on an ergometer, calculated from the pace using the Concept2 formula: Watts = 2.80 / pace³.Steady State RowingSteady state rowing is sustained, moderate-intensity ergometer training performed at a consistent pace for extended duration, typically 20-90 minutes at 55-75% of heart rate reserve.Effort Score CalculatorErg Technique GuideFor Beginners
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